One of the questions that frequently arises for Airbnb hosts is whether to charge guests for an early check-in. As a host, it is crucial to strike a balance between accommodating your guests' needs and ensuring that your time and resources are valued. So… to charge or not to charge?

We did some leg work and scouted the Airbnb host groups on Facebook looking for answers. This post will include the most commonly given answers from fellow hosts in the US and UK.

What to take into consideration before making the early check-in charge decision:

Evaluate Demand and Availability:

Consider the demand for early check-ins in your location. If your area has high tourist traffic or is a popular business destination, offering early check-ins may be attractive to potential guests. Evaluate your availability and workload to determine if accommodating early check-ins will be manageable without compromising the quality of your service.

If there’s no guest on the property the day before, it should be fairly simple to allow for an early check-in.

Assess Additional Costs and Efforts:

Early check-ins may entail extra costs and effort on your part as a host. You might need to adjust your cleaning schedule, coordinate with your team (if applicable), or make other arrangements to prepare for the early arrival. Assess whether these additional costs are justifiable by charging a fee or if it would be more strategic to offer early check-ins as a gesture of excellent service.

If you’re using a local key exchange service, like KeyNest, it’s easy to adjust the key availability time - if you change the check-in time, you can adjust the key collection time remotely and send the guest to collect the key earlier - without the need to adjust your personal schedule.

Competitor Analysis:

Research similar listings in your area and find out if other hosts charge for early check-ins. Consider the average price they charge for this add-on service. This analysis will give you a rough understanding of market expectations and help you determine if charging for early check-ins is a common practice among your peers.

Guest Satisfaction and Reviews:

Take into account the impact of early check-ins on guest satisfaction. Providing a flexible and accommodating experience, especially for those arriving from a long journey, can contribute to positive reviews and loyal customers. Weigh the potential positive effect on guest satisfaction against the revenue generated from charging for early check-ins.

Are you currently trying to get to a SuperHost or Guest Favourite level? Then it’s worth taking the risk and offering an early check-in free of charge, even if just for a couple of bookings.

Consider this simple rule: Treat others how you'd like to be treated in a fair world. If you show guests respect and a bit of generosity, they're likely to overlook minor issues and leave you a positive review. However, if you set the tone by being overly demanding, expecting every penny, guests might adopt the same approach and contact you frequently about every small matter. Remember, what you give is often what you get in return.

Set Clear Terms and Conditions:

Whatever decision you make regarding charging for early check-ins, ensure that your terms and conditions are clearly communicated in your listing description and house rules. Provide details about the specific timeframe for early check-ins and any associated charges, if applicable. Clear expectations will help manage guests' anticipation and avoid misunderstandings.

So… Should I charge for the early check-in?

Remember, providing exceptional service can ultimately lead to better reviews, more bookings, and increased revenue in the long run. Analyse these factors thoroughly, and make a decision that aligns with your hosting goals and guest preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the specific factors to consider when evaluating demand and availability for early check-ins in my location?

Check the local event calendar for conferences, festivals, or major events. During such periods, guests may prefer early check-ins, and accommodating this demand could attract more bookings.
Understand the demographics of your typical guests. Business travellers or international visitors, for instance, might have different preferences regarding check-in times. Tailor your approach based on the preferences of your target audience.
Assess whether offering early check-ins can be a unique selling point for your listing. If few hosts in your area provide this service, it could set you apart and attract guests looking for flexible accommodation options.

What are other additional strategies to enhance guest satisfaction beyond offering early check-ins?

Flexible cancelllation options: avoid the strict cancellation policy to give yourself a chance for more bookings - find out more about the Airbnb cancellation policy here
Implement eco-friendly practices in your property, such as recycling options or energy-efficient appliances. Many guests appreciate hosts who prioritize sustainability.
Respond promptly to guest inquiries and messages. Clear and timely communication builds trust and helps guests feel more comfortable during their stay. Create enticing post-stay emails with additional deals to attract the guests to return. We drafted a couple of email copies you could use here.

How do I check what is the average market price for early check-ins in my area?

Explore popular vacation rental platforms such as Airbnb, Vrbo, or Booking.com. Search for properties similar to yours in terms of location, size, and amenities.
Read guest reviews for properties in your area to identify any mentions of early check-ins. Guests may share their experiences and whether they found the charges reasonable or not.
Some online tools and platforms may provide market insights for short-term rental hosts. Explore resources that offer data on pricing trends in your specific location.
Keep in mind that pricing for early check-ins may vary based on seasonal demand.

About Us

KeyNest offers you a convenient service for storing and exchanging your property keys. You can drop off a key at any of the 7,000+ locations in our network, so there’s one such Point located next to your property already.

Guests, cleaners or contractors can then collect the key securely from a KeyNest Point, which is usually open 24/7. You'll be notified each time the key is picked up or returned, and you can even customize check-in and check-out times.

KeyNest has an ever-expanding global network of locations located just minutes from your property. To find out more, visit our website.

Should I charge my Airbnb guests for an early check-in? - Airbnb Host Guide 2024